Behaviourally Anchored Rating Scale

A behaviorally anchored rating scale (BARS) is a tool that measures employee performance by comparing it to specific behaviors. BARS is a structured and objective way to evaluate performance.

What is the Behaviourally Anchored Rating Scale used to measure?

What BARS Measures:

• Job performance in a structured and objective way
• Observable behaviors that indicate effectiveness or ineffectiveness in a role
• Competency levels across key responsibilities or skills (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving, customer service)

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How does the Behaviourally Anchored Rating scale work?

Each point on the scale is anchored with concrete examples of behavior.

For instance, in a 1–5 scale for customer service:

• 1 (Poor): Ignores customer complaints or responds rudely
• 3 (Average): Resolves basic issues without follow-up
• 5 (Excellent): Anticipates customer needs and provides proactive solutions

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What are the advantages of the BARS method of assessment?

• Reduces subjectivity in performance evaluations
• Provides clear expectations and feedback
• Helps in coaching and development by identifying specific behaviors to improve